Top 5 Best Places for Shopping at Al-Muizz Street, Egypt
Al-Muizz Street is one of Cairo’s most famous and historic shopping districts, lined with centuries-old markets, artisan shops, and unique traditional stores. It is a paradise for anyone looking to buy authentic Egyptian souvenirs, antiques, handmade crafts, and Islamic art pieces. Here are the top 5 best places for shopping at Al-Muizz Street:
1. Khan El Khalili Bazaar – The Most Famous Market
Location: Adjacent to Al-Muizz Street
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening
What to Buy:
- Egyptian souvenirs (scarabs, papyrus, pyramids, and statues).
- Traditional jewelry (handmade silver and gold pieces).
- Brass lamps & lanterns (intricately designed with colorful glass).
- Perfume oils & incense (locally made and beautifully packaged).
- Handwoven textiles & rugs from Egyptian artisans.
Secret Tip: Bargaining is expected and encouraged—always start with half the asking price!
2. El-Fishawy Café & Antique Shops – For Vintage & Collectors' Items
Location: Inside Khan El Khalili Bazaar, near Al-Muizz Street
Best Time to Visit: Evening
What to Buy:
- Vintage Egyptian antiques & collectibles.
- Handmade copper and brassware (trays, vases, and cups).
- Traditional Egyptian hookahs (Shisha pipes) with detailed engravings.
- Rare books & old maps of Cairo and Egypt.
Secret Tip: After shopping, relax at El-Fishawy Café, the oldest coffee shop in Cairo, open since 1773!
3. Sabil-Kuttab of Katkhuda – For Islamic Art & Calligraphy
Location: Al-Muizz Street, near Bab Zuweila
Best Time to Visit: Morning
What to Buy:
- Islamic calligraphy artwork (hand-painted verses from the Quran).
- Handcrafted wooden Islamic furniture & décor.
- Brass & copper wall plates with intricate Arabic designs.
- Handmade Quran manuscripts & prayer beads.
Secret Tip: Many artists custom-make calligraphy pieces on request—perfect for a personalized souvenir!
4. Al-Khayamia (Tentmakers' Bazaar) – Best for Handmade Textiles
Location: Near Bab Zuweila, close to Al-Muizz Street
Best Time to Visit: Midday
What to Buy:
- Handmade Egyptian tapestries & wall hangings.
- Intricately designed bedspreads & cushion covers.
- Traditional "Khayamiya" tents & decorative fabrics used for celebrations.
- Custom embroidery with your name in Arabic.
Secret Tip: This is the best place in Cairo to find authentic handmade textiles, often used in wedding celebrations and Egyptian festivals.
5. Bayt Al-Suhaymi Gift Shops – Best for Handmade Ceramics & Pottery
Location: Al-Muizz Street, near Darb Al-Ahmar
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon
What to Buy:
- Hand-painted ceramic plates & vases with Egyptian patterns.
- Traditional Siwan pottery (desert-inspired designs).
- Handmade leather goods (bags, wallets, and shoes).
- Miniature Egyptian monuments carved from stone.
Secret Tip: You can watch artisans making pottery in some of the shops, and even try your hand at painting a ceramic piece as a fun souvenir!
Summary: Best Shopping Spots on Al-Muizz Street
| # | Shopping Place | Best For | What to Buy |
|---|--------------------|----------------------|--------------------------------------------|
| 1 | Khan El Khalili Bazaar | Traditional souvenirs | Jewelry, lamps, rugs, perfumes, textiles |
| 2 | El-Fishawy & Antiques Shops | Vintage items & collectibles | Shisha pipes, rare books, antiques |
| 3 | Sabil-Kuttab of Katkhuda | Islamic art & calligraphy | Quran manuscripts, brass plates |
| 4 | Al-Khayamia (Tentmakers’ Bazaar) | Handmade textiles | Tapestries, cushion covers, fabric décor |
| 5 | Bayt Al-Suhaymi Gift Shops | Pottery & ceramics | Hand-painted plates, pottery, leather goods |
Shopping Tips for Al-Muizz Street
Bargain like a pro – Vendors often quote high prices, so negotiate.
Carry cash – Many small shops don’t accept credit cards.
Shop in the evening – The markets are livelier, and you can enjoy the atmosphere of historic Cairo.
Be mindful of pickpockets – Keep your belongings secure in busy areas. Take your time exploring – Many shops are hidden down small alleys, so wander around!
Al-Muizz Street is one of the best places for shopping in Cairo, offering a blend of history, culture, and unique handcrafted items. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, antiques, textiles, or Islamic art, this historic shopping district has something for everyone!
